PhD Event of Curriculum 3 Planetary Sciences

Program Overview 

Curriculum 3 - Planetary Sciences is dedicated to the study of planetary bodies, their formation, evolution, composition, and physical and chemical processes, within the broader framework of Solar System science and planetary exploration.

The curriculum provides interdisciplinary and advanced research training, combining planetary geology, mineralogy, geochemistry, cosmochemistry, meteoritics, and remote sensing. Particular attention is devoted to the characterization of planetary materials, the study of extraterrestrial samples, the geological and mineralogical evolution of terrestrial and icy bodies, and the investigation of processes shaping planetary surfaces and interiors.
Research activities also address current challenges in planetary exploration, including the identification and characterization of planetary resources, in-situ resource utilization (ISRU), astrobiology, and the potential habitability of planetary environments.
Through collaborations with national and international universities, research institutions, and space agencies, the curriculum aims to train highly qualified researchers capable of contributing to the scientific and technological challenges of present and future planetary exploration missions.

Full Programme of presentation

Giovanni Pratesi - Department of Earth Sciences, University of Firenze - Welcome and Introduction

Alessandro Frigeri - National Institute of Astrophysics - The Art and Science of Planetary Mapping (invited lecture)

Sole Biancalani -  National Institute of Astrophysics - Searching for Life on Mars: Lessons from Earth

Annarita Franza - University of Firenze - When Space Comes to Earth: the Science and Culture of Extraterrestrial Materials